In this four-hour course, each session will focus on the use of
advanced MR methodologies on one topic: 1) quantification of
angiogenesis and permeability, 2) brain development, 3) cortical
reorganization and functional connectivity and, 4) clinical
trials. The current state of knowledge in clinical research of
advanced MR metrics such as MR volumetry, DTI and tractography,
fMRI and perfusion will be illustrated in the context of
depicting underlying pathophysiology of brain development,
cortical reorganization after injury, neoangiogenesis and axonal
injury. It will be also illustrated how all this information can
be correctly used in the contest of clinical trials. Emphasis
will be on how to perform studies in the clinical environment
with the cooperation of patients. Limitations and Quality
Assurance (QA) procedure will be described.

Educational Objectives

Upon completion of this course, participants should be able to:
• Describe the main applications and contributions of advanced
MR methodologies such as fMRI, DTI, volumetry, perfusion. etc.
in clinical neuroscience;
• Describe the technical requirements necessary to implement
robust, accurate and repeatable clinical advanced MR studies in
patients with neurological diseases;
• List the potential contribution of the most diffuse
non-conventional MR methods to formulate diagnosis, prognosis
and monitor
treatment in the neurological diseases covered in this course;
• Discuss the basic MR principles involved in the quantification
of angiogenesis and permeability using perfusion MR imaging;
• Implement new quantitative MR methods that may quantify
clinical relevant brain damage;
• Recognize challenges, limitations and pitfalls of performing
advanced MR studies to answer clinical questions in neurological
patients; and
• Implement Quality Assurance (QA) procedures necessary to run a
reliable and successful advanced MRI clinic.

Audience Description

This course is designed for:
• Students in EE/BME/physics/medicine who are interested in
learning when and how advanced MRI techniques may be
used to answer clinical questions;
• Neuroscientists/engineers who are working with advanced MRI
methods and are interested in learning which are the
relevant clinical questions to address in neuroscience;
• Physicians/neuroscientists who are interested in learning more
about advanced MR methods in neuroscience; and
• Physicians/neuroscientists/engineers who are planning to
perform state-of-the-art advanced MRI studies in their clinical
practice.